Snapchat Just Admitted Something Major About Their Filters

Makeup artists, listen up.

In May, Snapchat was accused of copying Russian artist Alexander Khokhlov’s work with a filter they launched of a geometric mask. When this caused a social media outcry, Snapchat was quick to release the following statement: “We agree that this lens is similar other artists’ creations and we have removed it. We are sorry for this embarrassing mistake and we are taking action to make sure it won’t happen again.” Well, unfortunately that’s exactly what happened.

The Ringer recently ran a story detailing other instances of Snapchat copying from artists, particularly makeup artists. According to the article, on Monday morning makeup artist Argenis Pinal noticed that a Snapchat filter featuring The Joker looked eerily similar to face paint he did himself months ago.

The filter was gone by the end of the day, but there’s no proof that it was removed as a result of Argenis reaching out to an employee at Snapchat. The Ringer also points out that one of everyone’s favorite filters that featured rainbow lips and tears, was originally a makeup look created by makeup artist Mykie.

Mykie told The Ringer that she’s yet to receive a response to any of her reports from anyone at Snapchat. She also makes a valid point about how taking legal action is harder for makeup artists versus artists who create graphics. She told The Ringer: “As I understand, it is difficult for makeup artists to protect their work since the copyright office does not automatically list makeup as one of their mediums eligible for copyright, unlike other types of art.”

Needless to say, the entire situation is hugely messy. Snapchat did end up releasing a statement to The Ringer in response to their article, and hinted that they have indeed copied the work of some artists for filters. The statement reads:

“The creative process sometimes involves inspiration, but it should never result in copying. We have already implemented additional layers of review for all designs. Copying other artists isn’t something we will tolerate, and we’re taking appropriate action internally with those involved.”

While it wasn’t necessarily apologetic, it can be a step forward to making sure that this actually doesn’t happen again like they claimed it wouldn’t in the past. If Snapchat is interested in using the work of makeup artists, or any other artists for that matter, then they should give them proper credit and reach out beforehand (or maybe work together, since clearly these makeup magicians have some seriously amazing tricks). With the power that social media has to build a person’s career, this can be a collaborative effort rather than the improper use of one’s work.